Displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly

RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/004,016, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled, “Displaceable Fifth-Wheel Hitch Assembly,” which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0002The present invention relates to hitches operable with a vehicle and a vehicle mounting assembly, and more particularly to fifth-wheel hitches.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART

0003A fifth-wheel trailer is generally a large, high profile trailer which is coupled to a large towing vehicle, such as a large pick-up truck or other suitable vehicle. The fifth-wheel trailer is typically coupled to the towing truck or vehicle using a fifth-wheel hitch or a ball hitch, which, in the case of many conventional fifth-wheel hitches, is typically mounted to the towing vehicle, such as to the frame of a truck, and is made to couple directly to the fifth-wheel trailer.

0004One problem with towing a fifth-wheel trailer relates to the available space for movement of the fifth-wheel trailer with respect to the towing vehicle. Due to the limited amount of space in some towing vehicles, such as with short-bed pick-up trucks, towing of a fifth-wheel trailer is primarily limited to larger towing vehicles, such as long-bed pick-up trucks. Long-bed pick-up trucks provide a distinct advantage by reducing the likelihood of the front of the fifth-wheel trailer coming in contact with the cab when negotiating a sharp turn, such as a 90 degree turn or a u-turn. Furthermore, pick-up trucks having long-beds are generally more capable of carrying large loads as these vehicles typically come equipped with greater suspension and towing systems. Due to the clearance between the front of the fifth-wheel trailer and the cab of the pick-up truck, short-bed trucks have essentially been limited to towing from commonly known hitch systems located at the rear-end of the truck, thus excluding popular fifth-wheel trailers.

0005Nonetheless, there is quite a large market for short-bed vehicles due to their versatility, smaller turning radius and more compact nature. Further, many of the short-bed vehicles include suspension and towing capabilities sufficient to handle many existing fifth-wheel trailers. However, to couple to a ball hitch, fifth-wheel trailers must be designed to include what is known as a goose neck assembly. Many fifth-wheel trailers are not designed with this feature and are, therefore, incapable of coupling to a ball hitch.

0006It may be desirable even larger vehicles having adequate space in which a fifth-wheel trailer may move within to locate the point of connection of the fifth-wheel trailer at different locations relative to the vehicle, wherein the means for accomplishing this are user friendly and efficiently operated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0007In light of the problems and deficiencies inherent in the prior art, the present invention seeks to overcome these by providing a displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly operable with a vehicle, wherein the displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly comprises a displacement assembly mountable within a vehicle, and a corresponding fifth-wheel hitch of one kind or another.

0008In accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention resides in a displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly comprising a displacement assembly having a stationary support coupled with the vehicle, and a movable support operable with the stationary support to permit displacement of the movable support in a bi-directional manner; a means for interfacing a fifth-wheel hitch with the movable support to enable the fifth-wheel hitch to displace in a bi-directional manner relative to the vehicle, a means for locking the movable support with respect to the stationary support, and a means for facilitating the displacement of the movable support and the fifth-wheel hitch.

0009The present invention also resides in a displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly configured to be mounted in the bed of a truck, comprising a platform track defining a track space; a platform configured to be positioned in the track space, to support a fifth-wheel hitch, and to permit bi-directional displacement of the fifth-wheel hitch relative to the platform track and the truck; an interface member that locates the fifth-wheel hitch in an elevated position above the platform track; and an adjustment assembly operable with the platform track to facilitate displacement of the platform and the fifth-wheel hitch, and to lock the platform and the fifth-wheel hitch in one of several positions.

0010The present invention further resides in a method for operating a fifth-wheel hitch with respect to a vehicle, the method comprising obtaining a displacement assembly mountable in a vehicle, the displacement assembly comprising a movable support operable to displace in a bi-directional manner; obtaining a fifth-wheel hitch; and relating the fifth-wheel hitch to the movable support of the displacement assembly to facilitate bi-directional displacement of the fifth-wheel hitch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0011The present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings merely depict exemplary embodiments of the present invention they are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. It will be readily appreciated that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Nonetheless, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

0012<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates a perspective view of a fifth-wheel hitch assembly including a platform track and a fifth-wheel hitch mounted on top of a platform through the use of a base and a riser according to an embodiment of the present invention;

0013<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates a front view of a platform track with a spacer attached to the bottom of a platform track and a support bracket attached to the side of a platform track;

0014<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates a front view of a platform and an adjustment assembly, the platform being confined within the track space of the platform track and having a raised and lower portion, the adjustment assembly having a spring, a locking pin, an adjustment rod, and an adjustment bracket and depicting the displacement of the locking pin between two positions through the use of the adjustment rod and adjustment bracket according to the embodiment of the present invention;

0015<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates a top view of the platform track, the platform, and the riser with the fifth-wheel hitch removed and with the platform being depicted in an upper and lower position;

0016<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates an exploded view of a fifth-wheel hitch supported by the riser and consisting of a head, a head mounting plate, and a base with brackets according to the embodiment of the present invention; and

0017<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an adjustment assembly, coupled to the platform track, consisting of the adjustment rod, the adjustment bracket including a window, and an adjustment hook according to the embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

0018The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and in which are shown, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented for purposes of illustration only and not limitation to describe the features and characteristics of the present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation of the invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims.

0019The following detailed description and exemplary embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the elements and features of the invention are designated by numerals throughout.

0020The present invention describes a method and system for enabling a towing vehicle, such as a long or short-bed truck, to tow a fifth-wheel trailer using a fifth-wheel hitch capable of being displaced, such as in a bi-directional manner, wherein the fifth-wheel hitch facilitates the selective location and relocation of the point of connection of the fifth-wheel trailer to the fifth-wheel hitch. For example, using a short-bed truck, the displaceable fifth-wheel hitch assembly may permit locating the fifth-wheel hitch, and therefore the fifth-wheel trailer and the point of connection between these, in a rearward direction prior to the short-bed truck negotiating a sharp turn, thereby providing the necessary clearance between the cab of the truck and the front of the fifth-wheel trailer.

0021Displacement of the fifth-wheel hitch may be achieved by mounting a stationary support in the bed of the towing vehicle that is operable with a movable support. The movable support may be coupled to the fifth-wheel hitch via an interfacing member. Displacement of the fifth-wheel hitch is facilitated through the use of an adjustment assembly comprising components capable of displacing the fifth-wheel hitch as needed or desired, and also selectively securing the fifth-wheel hitch in a secured position during towing.

0022The present invention provides several significant advantages over prior related fifth-wheel hitch assemblies and displaceable hitch assemblies, some of which are recited here and throughout the following more detailed description. First, the present invention enables a short-bed truck or other towing vehicles having small operating areas to tow a fifth-wheel trailer designed for use with a fifth-wheel hitch. Second, the present invention provides means for interfacing with proprietary and other fifth-wheel hitches, wherein said means for interfacing is operable with a movable support, thereby allowing bi-directional or other directional displacement of the fifth-wheel hitch in relation to the towing vehicle. Third, the present invention compensates for varying truck bed-liner surface configurations and thicknesses, enabling a fifth-wheel hitch to be used with any truck bed surface. Fourth, the present invention enables a fifth-wheel hitch to be supported regardless of the truck bed surface through the use of adjustable support brackets. Fifth, the present invention provides for vertical adjustment of a fifth-wheel hitch, allowing the fifth-wheel hitch to compensate for varying truck/fifth-wheel trailer configurations.

0023Each of the above-recited advantages will be apparent in light of the detailed description set forth below, with reference to the accompanying drawings. These advantages are not meant to be limiting in any way. Indeed, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other advantages may be realized, other than those specifically recited herein, upon practicing the present invention.

0024With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-6</figref>, illustrated is a fifth-wheel hitch assembly in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The fifth-wheel hitch assembly <b>6</b> comprises a fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> and a displacement assembly <b>8</b> mountable within a vehicle (not shown), such as the bed of a truck. The fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> comprises a head <b>74</b> operable with a base <b>52</b> and a head mounting plate <b>64</b>.

0025The displacement assembly <b>8</b> comprises a stationary support and a movable support. In one exemplary embodiment the stationary support can include a platform track <b>10</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, mounted in the bed of a truck (not shown), wherein the platform track <b>10</b> is mounted on top of a mounting bracket <b>12</b> coupled to the frame of the truck.

0026In one exemplary embodiment the movable support can include a platform <b>160</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> operable with the stationary support to permit or facilitate displacement of the movable support, and operable with a fifth-wheel hitch, such as fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b>. The platform track <b>10</b> may be configured to define a track space <b>16</b> therein to allow guided and predictable movement of the platform <b>160</b>, and therefore the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> and fifth-wheel trailer (not shown), within and along the track space <b>16</b>.

0027As indicated, the fifth-wheel hitch assembly <b>6</b> may be configured to be mounted to the towing vehicle, such as to a short-bed pick-up truck, using a vehicle hitch coupling system as commonly known in the art. In particular, the platform track <b>10</b> may be configured to be secured to the mounting bracket <b>12</b>, which may be part of the vehicle hitch coupling system. The mounting bracket <b>12</b> may be concealed under the truck bed and secured to the chassis of the truck. An example of one particular type of vehicle hitch coupling system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,246,244, which is incorporated by reference herein.

0028The platform track <b>10</b> can include a bottom plate <b>14</b>, first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> and one or more spacers disposed between and separating the bottom and upper plates (see spacers <b>18</b>, <b>22</b>, and <b>24</b>). The platform track <b>10</b> can be made with the first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> disposed over a top surface of the bottom plate <b>14</b> with each of the spacers sandwiched therebetween. In particular, the spacers <b>18</b> and <b>24</b> can be positioned on the top surface of the bottom plate <b>14</b> and substantially flush with the edges at each corner of the bottom plate <b>14</b>. The length of the spacers <b>18</b> and <b>24</b> can be substantially the same as the width of the first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b>. The spacer <b>22</b> may also be positioned on the top surface and extend lengthwise along first and second longitudinal sides of the bottom plate <b>14</b> and may be configured to be substantially flush with the first and second edges of the bottom plate <b>14</b>. The width of the spacer <b>22</b> is sized smaller than the width of the first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b>. The first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> can then be positioned over each of the spacers so that the outer edges are flush with the outer edges of each of the spacers and the bottom plate <b>14</b> and the inner edges of the first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> over hang past the inner edges of the spacer <b>22</b>.

0029Each of the bottom plate <b>14</b>, spacers and first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> include holes <b>38</b> extending transversely therethrough configured to receive bolts for fastening each of the bottom and upper plates and spacers together, with the spacers sandwiched therebetween. With this arrangement, each of the spacers, the first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b>, and the bottom plate <b>14</b> function to define a track space <b>16</b> formed within the platform track <b>10</b>. The spacers <b>18</b> and <b>24</b> define ends of the track space <b>16</b>, with the side spacers (see spacer <b>22</b>), having a smaller sized width than the first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b>, defining sides of the track space <b>16</b>. The track space <b>16</b> is specifically designed to provide limited displacement or movement, in this case bi-directional displacement or movement, of the movable component, or platform <b>160</b>.

0030The bottom plate <b>14</b> also include holes <b>40</b> extending therethrough configured to receive a locking pin <b>180</b> used to selectively locate and lock the platform <b>160</b> in either an first or upper position <b>120</b>, a second or lower position <b>130</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, or at any position between these. The bottom plate <b>14</b> further includes holes (see holes <b>36</b>) formed in the front and back faces extending parallel with the longitudinal sides of the bottom plate <b>14</b> used for securing one or more support brackets (see support bracket <b>30</b>) designed to adjust the height of the bottom plate <b>14</b> and the displacement assembly <b>8</b>.

0031The platform <b>160</b> can be sized and configured to be positioned in the track space <b>16</b> of the platform track <b>10</b>. The platform <b>160</b> can include a non-planar configuration having a raised portion <b>164</b> and a lower portion <b>168</b> (see particularly <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). The lower portion <b>168</b> can extend outward from opposing sides of the raised portion <b>164</b> to extend between the bottom plate <b>14</b> and the respective first and second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> within the track space <b>16</b>. In this manner, opposing ends of the lower portion <b>168</b> are contained within the track space <b>16</b> of the platform track <b>10</b>. Further, with the lower portion <b>168</b> of the platform <b>160</b> disposed within the track space <b>16</b> of the platform track <b>10</b>, the platform <b>160</b> is configured to slidably move in a bi-directional manner within the track space <b>16</b>. Such track space can be lubricated with a grease type lubricant to reduce the friction between the platform <b>160</b> and the platform track <b>10</b>. Any other suitable means of sliding movement can also be employed, such as with rollers, bearings, etc., as known to those skilled in the art.

0032The platform <b>160</b> can include an interfacing member such as a riser <b>176</b> extending upward from the raised portion <b>164</b> as a means for interfacing the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> with the platform <b>160</b>. The interfacing member serves to support and locate the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> above the platform track <b>10</b> and to enable the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> to displace or slidably move with the platform <b>160</b>. Other means for interfacing the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> and the platform <b>160</b> can be employed. One such embodiment can include coupling an interfacing member, such as the riser <b>176</b>, to a platform having a planar configuration, which locates the fifth-wheel hitch above the platform track <b>10</b>, wherein the platform is configured to be confined and slidably movable within the track space <b>16</b> defined by the platform track <b>10</b>. Another such embodiment can include coupling the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> directly to the platform <b>160</b> without the use of the riser <b>176</b>. In any case, the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> can be interfaced with the platform <b>160</b> or some other movable support by any method known to one of ordinary skill in the art to enable the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> to move bi-directionally with the platform <b>160</b> or other support.

0033The displacement assembly <b>8</b>, and particularly the platform track <b>10</b>, can further include a spacer <b>42</b> operable with the bottom plate <b>14</b> that positions the platform track <b>10</b> above the truck bed (not shown) by a distance h, such as approximately one inch (see particularly <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>).

0034The displacement assembly <b>8</b> can further include a support device such as a support bracket <b>30</b> mounted on one or both of the front and back of the platform track <b>10</b>. The support bracket <b>30</b> can include ribs <b>32</b> to reinforce the support bracket <b>30</b>, as well as slots <b>34</b> cut through the support bracket <b>30</b> in a manner that permits the bolting of the support bracket <b>30</b> to the bottom plate <b>14</b> using the holes <b>36</b> in the bottom plate <b>14</b>. The slots <b>34</b> can be configured in a manner to allow the support bracket <b>30</b> to be adjusted in relation to the platform track <b>10</b>. The slot configuration allows the support bracket <b>30</b> to be adjusted so the bottom surface of the support bracket <b>30</b> may be positioned at different elevational positions relative to the bottom surface of the bottom plate <b>14</b> (see the adjusted location of support bracket <b>30</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> permitting the bottom plate <b>14</b> to be elevated or located above the truck bed by a height h). In other words, adjusting the support bracket <b>30</b> functions to selectively vary the height of the platform track <b>10</b>. The adjustability of the support bracket <b>30</b> allows the displacement assembly <b>8</b> to be able to compensate for varying truck bed surface configurations and thicknesses, such as an increased thickness caused by the presence of a bed liner (not shown), while also allowing the support bracket <b>30</b> to support the platform track <b>10</b> relative to the truck surface.

0035The platform <b>160</b> can include a riser <b>176</b>, as previously set forth, that further couples to a fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b>. In the embodiment shown, the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> comprises a base <b>52</b>, a hitch mounting device, such as a head mounting plate <b>64</b>, and a head <b>74</b>. The base <b>52</b> can be coupled to the riser <b>176</b> through using any known means, such as welding, fastening (e.g., bolting), etc. The base <b>52</b> can be constructed to be approximately the same width as the bottom plate <b>14</b> and smaller in longitudinal length then the bottom plate <b>14</b>, or any other size. The base can include lips <b>54</b> configured perpendicular to the base <b>52</b> and in a manner such as to create a frame allowing the base <b>52</b> to act as a platform to support the head <b>74</b>. The lips <b>54</b> can be constructed by bending the base at ninety degrees or by some other suitable method. The base <b>52</b> can include brackets <b>56</b> substantially the same width as the inner portion of the frame created in the base <b>52</b> and configured in a manner to allow the brackets <b>56</b> to be rigidly attached to the bottom of the base <b>52</b> and to the inner sides of the lips <b>54</b>, thus allowing the base and the lips to support the brackets <b>56</b>. The brackets <b>56</b> can be configured to be taller than the lips <b>54</b> and substantially the same width as the frame created in the base <b>52</b> up to the height of the lips <b>54</b> and thereafter to narrow linearly to the top of the brackets <b>56</b>. The brackets can include holes <b>58</b> cut transversely through the bracket <b>56</b> and a notch <b>60</b> cut at the top of the bracket.

0036The fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> can include a head mounting plate <b>64</b> that is used in conjunction with the base <b>52</b> to support the head <b>74</b>. The head mounting plate <b>64</b> can include lips <b>66</b> similar to the lips <b>54</b> created in the base <b>52</b>. The lips <b>66</b> can be created by bending the head mounting plate <b>64</b> ninety degrees or by some other suitable method thereby creating a channel in the head mounting plate <b>64</b> having a width less than the inner sides of the frame created in the base <b>52</b>, such configuration thus permitting the head mounting plate <b>64</b> to fit within the frame of the base <b>52</b>. The head mounting plate <b>64</b> can include holes <b>68</b> configured in a manner that provides for bolts to be placed through the holes <b>68</b> in the head mounting plate <b>64</b> and through the holes <b>58</b> in the brackets <b>56</b>, allowing the head mounting plate <b>64</b> to be secured to the base <b>52</b> via mounting the head mounting plate <b>64</b> to the brackets <b>56</b>. The holes <b>68</b> in the head mounting plate <b>64</b> and the holes <b>58</b> in the brackets <b>56</b> serve to allow the head mounting plate <b>64</b> to be adjusted in relation to the brackets <b>56</b>. In this manner, the head mounting plate <b>64</b> can be raised or lowered in relation to the brackets <b>56</b> and in relation to the platform <b>160</b>, and thereby can be used to raise or lower the head <b>74</b>. Such configuration would allow the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> to adapt to a variety of truck/fifth-wheel trailer configurations.

0037The head mounting plate <b>64</b> can also include a U-shaped channel <b>70</b> attached to the top of the head mounting plate <b>64</b>. The U-shaped channel <b>70</b> can be configured such that when the head mounting plate <b>64</b> is attached to the bracket <b>56</b> at its lowest position in relation to the bracket, the size and shape of the U-shaped channel <b>70</b> is substantially the same as the notch <b>60</b> located at the top of the bracket <b>56</b>. The U-shaped channel <b>70</b> is configured in such a way as to support the head <b>74</b> by cradling the hitch rod <b>80</b>. The U-shaped channel <b>70</b> also includes a hole <b>72</b> configured in such a way as to allow a pin to be placed through the hole <b>72</b> to secure the head <b>74</b> in the U-shaped channel via securing the hitch rod <b>80</b> in the U-shaped channel <b>70</b>.

0038The displacement assembly further comprises, as part of an adjustment assembly <b>90</b>, a locking pin <b>180</b> that can be used in conjunction with the platform <b>160</b> as a type of latching mechanism to mechanically hold the movable platform <b>160</b> in place with respect to the platform track <b>10</b>. The locking pin <b>180</b> and platform <b>160</b> comprise one exemplary means for locking the movable support with respect to the stationary support, and can be configured to facilitate a locking position in which the locking pin <b>180</b> is positioned within one of the holes <b>40</b> in the bottom plate <b>14</b>, thereby locking the platform <b>160</b> with respect to the bottom plate <b>14</b> in one of several available positions (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>), or any interim positions. In another example, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the means for locking can include locking pin <b>180</b> that is biased by spring <b>184</b> into one of the holes <b>40</b> in the platform track <b>10</b>. The platform <b>160</b> can be constructed to include a lower support <b>172</b> placed on the bottom side of the platform that offers support and stability to the platform <b>160</b> and that helps locate the position of the locking pin <b>180</b>.

0039The platform <b>160</b> and lower support <b>172</b> can be further constructed to include a hole <b>166</b> cut through the platform <b>160</b> and the lower support <b>172</b> that allows the locking pin <b>180</b> to extend from above the top surface of the platform <b>160</b>, through the platform and the lower support <b>172</b>, and to rest on the top surface of the bottom plate <b>14</b> when the platform <b>160</b> is assembled with the platform track <b>10</b>.

0040The locking pin <b>180</b> can include a clip <b>182</b> that is rigidly attached to the locking pin <b>180</b> and located on the locking pin <b>180</b> in a manner that allows the clip <b>182</b> to rest on the inner surface of the lower support <b>172</b> when the locking pin <b>180</b> is positioned through the hole <b>166</b> and the clip <b>182</b> is positioned between the inner surface of the raised portion <b>164</b> and the inner surface of the lower support <b>172</b> and when the locking pin <b>180</b> occupies its locking position. The platform <b>160</b> can include a spring <b>184</b> located between the inner surface of the raised portion <b>164</b> and the inner surface of the lower support <b>172</b> that is positioned in such a way that the top of the spring <b>184</b> rests on the inner surface of the raised portion <b>164</b> and the bottom of the spring <b>184</b> rests on the top surface of the clip <b>182</b>, thus biasing the locking pin <b>180</b>, and thus compelling the locking pin <b>180</b> into its locking position. The locking pin <b>180</b> can be further constructed to be operable and actuated via a manual adjustment rod, shown as adjustment rod <b>92</b>. For example, the locking pin <b>180</b> may include a hole <b>186</b> cut through a portion thereof that is positioned above the top surface of the raised portion <b>164</b> and that allows the locking pin <b>180</b> to be coupled to the adjustment rod <b>92</b>, as described below.

0041The locking pin <b>180</b>, platform <b>160</b>, lower support <b>172</b>, and the holes <b>40</b> in the bottom plate <b>14</b> can be configured in a manner to allow the bottom surface of the locking pin <b>180</b> to slide along the top surface of the bottom plate <b>14</b> during displacement of the platform <b>160</b> until the locking pin <b>180</b> is positioned over one of the holes <b>40</b> in the bottom plate <b>14</b>, at which moment the locking pin <b>180</b> is caused to be received and positioned in the hole <b>40</b> via the spring <b>184</b>. Thus, the position of the platform <b>160</b> may be secured in one of several available positions, such as those shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>.

0042Other means for locking the movable support with respect to the stationary support can be employed to lock the platform <b>160</b> in place with respect to the platform track <b>10</b>. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, means for locking can comprise an electromagnet <b>280</b> can be embedded in the platform track <b>10</b> and coupled to an electric switch <b>282</b>, wherein the electromagnet may be and configured in a manner to electrically hold a platform made of electrically conductive material in place with respect to the platform track <b>10</b> when the electric switch is activated. It is contemplated that other systems and mechanisms may be used to lock the platform in place with respect to the platform track and which may be implemented and used with the displacement assembly, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. As such, those described herein and shown in the drawings are not meant to be limiting in any way.

0043The adjustment rod <b>92</b> may be used in conjunction with an adjustment bracket <b>96</b> to facilitate the displacement of the platform <b>160</b> and fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b>. The adjustment bracket <b>96</b> may consist of angled steel or some other suitable material and may be coupled to the first or second upper plates <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> using bolts (not shown) or some other suitable means. The adjustment bracket <b>96</b> can include a slot or window <b>98</b> that permits the adjustment rod <b>92</b> to pass therethrough, and to engage and operate with the locking pin <b>180</b>, thereby facilitating the actuation of the locking pin <b>180</b>, namely displacing it from its locked position, as shown by the dashed outline in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. Specifically, the bottom surface of the window <b>98</b> functions as a fulcrum point to permit the adjustment rod <b>92</b> to act as a lever that lifts the locking pin <b>180</b> enough to disengage the platform track <b>10</b>.

0044The adjustment bracket <b>96</b> and window <b>98</b> can be constructed in a manner and coupled to the platform track <b>10</b> in such a way as to allow the adjustment rod <b>92</b> to access and engage the locking pin <b>180</b> with the platform <b>160</b> positioned in any of the several available locking positions. The adjustment rod <b>92</b> can further comprise a two pronged fork <b>102</b> at one end having a gap formed between the prongs suitable to receive the locking pin <b>180</b>. The fork <b>102</b> can include a hole <b>100</b> through both prongs that permits a pin (not shown) to be placed through the fork, which fork facilitates the secure engaging of the locking pin <b>180</b> for manipulating the vertical displacement (e.g., engaging and disengaging) of the locking pin <b>180</b>.

0045The displacement of the locking pin <b>180</b> from its locked position can be achieved by placing the adjustment rod <b>92</b> through the adjustment window <b>98</b>, causing the fork <b>102</b> of the adjustment rod <b>92</b> to receive and engage the locking pin <b>180</b>, aligning the hole <b>100</b> in the fork <b>102</b> with the hole <b>186</b> in the locking pin <b>180</b>, placing a pin (not shown) through the hole <b>100</b> in the fork <b>102</b> and through the hole <b>186</b> in the locking pin <b>180</b>, thus securing the separate pieces together, and applying a downward force on the other end of the adjustment rod <b>92</b>. This action causes causing the rod <b>92</b> to pivot about the edge of the adjustment window <b>98</b> to lift the locking pin <b>180</b> from its locked position. With the locking pin <b>180</b> displaced from its locked position, a force may be applied to the platform <b>160</b> causing it to displace within the track space <b>16</b> and relocate to a new desired position.

0046As part of the adjustment assembly <b>90</b>, the adjustment bracket <b>96</b> can include one or more adjustment hooks (see adjustment hook <b>94</b>) coupled to the adjustment bracket <b>96</b> by welding or by some other suitable method. The adjustment hook <b>94</b> can be attached to the adjustment bracket <b>96</b> in such a way that the bottom of the hook is substantially at the same elevation or height as the top of the adjustment rod <b>92</b> when the adjustment rod <b>92</b> displaces the locking pin <b>180</b> from its locked position, as indicated by the dashed outline in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. The adjustment hook <b>94</b> can also be attached in such a way that the adjustment rod <b>92</b> can be placed under the adjustment hook <b>94</b> and held in its location by the adjustment hook <b>94</b>. In this manner, when the adjustment rod <b>92</b> displaces the locking pin <b>180</b> from its locking position, the adjustment rod <b>92</b> may be placed under the adjustment hook <b>94</b> and held in this upward position with the locking pin <b>180</b> displaced from its locked position. In essence, the adjustment hook <b>94</b> is configured to receive and engage the rod <b>92</b> and to permit the rod to maintain the locking pin <b>180</b> in a vertically displaced position, without manual assistance, and with the rod <b>92</b> applying a force that acts against and overcomes the spring force biasing the locking pin <b>180</b> in a downward position.

0047The adjustment hook <b>94</b> can also be configured in such a manner so as to allow the adjustment rod <b>92</b> and adjustment hook <b>94</b> to disengage upon displacement of the platform <b>160</b> from one position to another. Such a configuration would allow the adjustment rod <b>92</b> to still maintain the locking pin <b>180</b> in an upward, disengaged position until the locking pin clears the current hole upon displacement of the platform <b>160</b>, but would also to allow the locking pin <b>180</b> to ride along the surface of the platform track <b>10</b> once the adjustment rod <b>92</b> releases from the adjustment hook <b>94</b>. Upon displacement of the platform <b>160</b> in either direction, and upon release from the adjustment hook <b>94</b>, the adjustment rod <b>92</b> slides along the adjustment bracket <b>96</b> within the adjustment window <b>98</b>. As a hole within the bottom plate <b>14</b> of the platform track <b>10</b> is reached, the locking pin <b>180</b> would automatically snap into place within the hole as a result of the spring <b>184</b> used to bias the locking pin <b>180</b>.

0048Other means for facilitating the engaging and/or disengaging of the locking pin <b>180</b> can also be employed. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, an electronic device <b>192</b>, such as a solenoid, can be coupled to the platform <b>160</b> and configured to work with an electronic switch <b>194</b> that is mounted on the platform track <b>10</b> or in some other suitable location. The solenoid can be configured in a manner to displace the locking pin <b>180</b> from its locked position when activated. The electronic switch can activate the solenoid and displacing the locking pin <b>180</b> from its locked position. With the locking pin <b>180</b> displaced from its locked position, a force may be applied to the platform <b>160</b> to cause it to displace within the track space <b>16</b>. Once the platform <b>160</b> is in a desired position, the electronic switch can be deactivated, which in turn deactivates the solenoid and returns the locking pin <b>180</b> into its new locked position.

0049According to the embodiment of the displacement assembly set forth above, a fifth-wheel hitch can be operated with a towing vehicle in the following manner. A displacement assembly <b>8</b> is obtained that includes a platform track <b>10</b> and a platform <b>160</b>. The platform track is secured to the vehicle using the mounting bracket <b>12</b>. A fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> is obtained and related to the platform by securing the base <b>52</b> to the riser <b>176</b> or by some other suitable method. The fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> and displacement assembly <b>8</b> are then operated with the platform <b>160</b>, and thus the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b>, locked in one of several available positions via the locking pin <b>180</b>, until it is desired that the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> be positioned in a new position. At this time, the adjustment rod <b>92</b> is placed through the window <b>98</b> of the adjustment bracket <b>96</b> and attached to the locking pin <b>180</b>. A downward force is applied to the other end of the adjustment rod <b>92</b> to displace the locking pin <b>180</b> from its locked position. The adjustment rod <b>92</b> is then held in place with the locking pin <b>180</b> removed from its locked position by placing the adjustment rod <b>92</b> under the adjustment hook <b>94</b>. During the displacement of the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b>, the adjustment rod <b>92</b> becomes unhooked from under the adjustment hook <b>94</b> and the spring <b>184</b> compels the locking pin <b>180</b> onto the surface of the bottom plate <b>14</b> via the clip <b>182</b>. The locking pin <b>180</b> moves slidably with the platform <b>160</b> along the surface of the bottom plate <b>14</b> until it encounters one of the holes <b>40</b> located in the bottom plate <b>14</b>, at which time the locking pin <b>180</b> is received into the hole <b>40</b> and the platform <b>160</b> and fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> are locked in the new position. The preceding process may be repeated to locate and relocate the platform <b>160</b> and the fifth-wheel hitch <b>50</b> to any available position.

0050The foregoing detailed description describes the invention with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. The detailed description and accompanying drawings are to be regarded as merely illustrative, rather than as restrictive, and all such modifications or changes, if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as described and set forth herein.

0051More specifically, while illustrative exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described herein, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but includes any and all embodiments having modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the foregoing detailed description. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the foregoing detailed description or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. For example, in the present disclosure, the term “preferably” is non-exclusive where it is intended to mean “preferably, but not limited to.” Any steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following conditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for” is expressly recited; and b) a corresponding function is expressly recited. The structure, material or acts that support the means-plus function are expressly recited in the description herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined solely by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and examples given above.